Those who have fireplaces or gas stoves in their homes, they must hire the services of trained chimney sweeps on a regular basis. The key reason to clean chimneys is to remove flammable creosote which accumulates inside these chimneys. If you allow these deposits of creosote and soot to settle down, they can even lead to a fire accident.

It is not possible for most of us to climb up on the roof and clean chimneys on our own. However, residential smoke flues must be cleaned regularly to ensure proper functioning and avoid fire accidents. There are many chimney sweeps who offer the services of cleaning and maintaining chimneys. It is vital to choose someone who can understand your needs well. There are certain things you must take care of, before you hire these professionals.

Here are a few tips that will help you hire professionals who know how to clean chimneys:

* Begin your search for good and trained chimney sweeps by asking your neighbors. Since, most people hire these professionals for cleaning chimneys, they might be able to give you some valuable contact information about them.

* Do not hire chimney sweeps without knowing their professional background. Take your time, ask them about their services, and then hire them if you feel they can provide you with the best services.

* If you are hiring these professionals from any home improvement service agency, then talk to the manager first, to know about the company. Also, talk to the efficient staffs and make sure they are well qualified and know their job well.

* Money is valuable for all of us. So, before hiring chimney sweeps from an agency, get an estimate of the expenses involved in residential smoke flue cleaning services, labor charges, and so forth. Compare the estimated rates of different agencies and then decide from where you will hire these professionals.

* Last but not the least, check whether your chosen service providers are insured.

Chimney cleaning is to be done regularly not only to save your home from fire, but also to ensure good health for your family. While searching for trained and skilled chimney sweeps, Silver Spring residents trust companies which are licensed and insured, and are proud members of The Better Business Bureau, National Chimney Sweep Guild, and have received 'A' ratings from Service Magic. This way, you can find and hire trained professionals, but at affordable rates!